Limerick

Limerick is the Republic of Ireland's third largest city, and the fifth largest on the island of Ireland as whole. The capital of Ireland's "mid-west" region, it also gives its name to the county of Limerick. Limerick is the only city that lies on the banks of the River Shannon, Ireland's longest river.

A city steeped in history, it was beseiged three times during the 17th century, once by Oliver Cromwell, and twice by the Williamites. Limerick also has a strong sporting tradition, and is arguably Ireland's rugby epicentre, with several schools in the city having a strong rugby ethos. Limerick's Thomond Park is also the main ground for Irish provincial club side Munster, who were European club rugby champions in 2006 and 2008.

Limerick is a university city since 1989, and the campus's sports arena is home to Ireland's only 50-metre swimming pool. A manufacturing facility for Dell Computers has been a major employer in the area. Although Limerick has generated its share of negative headlines due to a lingering presence of gangland related crime, this is in marked contrast to the friendliness and hospitality that can be found in most areas of the city.

• Thomond Park Rugby Stadium

• University of Limerick

• St. John's Castle

• Richard Harris (1930-2002) - actor

• Terry Wogan - broadcaster (BBC)

• The Cranberries - rock band

• Paul O'Connell - international rugby player

• Frank McCourt (1930-2009) - author (Angela's Ashes)